Active receptacle cover

ABSTRACT

A cover for an electrical receptacle including a faceplate. The cover also includes a first transmission tab configured to be electrically connected to a first power line of the electrical receptacle and a second transmission tab configured to be electrically connected to a second power line of the electrical receptacle. Additionally, the cover includes a device (such as a light source, circuit, port, or sensor) in communication with the first transmission tab and the second transmission tab.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/193,645, filed Nov. 16, 2018, and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,687,432on Jun. 16, 2020, entitled RECEPTACLE COVER, which is a Continuation ofU.S. application Ser. No. 15/275,641, filed Sep. 26, 2016, issued asU.S. Pat. No. 10,136,534 on Nov. 20, 2018, entitled Receptacle Cover,which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/158,322,filed Jan. 17, 2014, which issued Oct. 11, 2016 as U.S. Pat. No.9,464,795, which is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.13/233,252, filed Sep. 15, 2011, which issued Mar. 11, 2014 as U.S. Pat.No. 8,668,347, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S.Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/383,457, filed Sep. 16, 2010, eachof which is incorporated by reference herein in the entirety and for allpurposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is generally directed to electric receptacles andswitches. More particularly, the present invention is directed to animproved receptacle or switch cover having an integrated light andconductive tab members for quickly and easily and securely forming anelectrical connection between the cover and an electric receptacle orlight switch module.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Unintentional injury in the home environment is a significant problem.“Underfoot accidents” is a phrase that is used to describe a class ofaccidents that includes slipping, tripping, falling, and other eventscausing injuries on stairs, floors, roofs, and the like.

The magnitude of this problem, i.e. falls related to poor lighting inthe home environment, has been documented in numerous studies over thelast several decades. The United States Health Service recorded 13.6million falls in 1972. Poor lighting, tripping, and falling has beenidentified as a major cause of these injuries. One study foundapproximately 80 percent of floors in typical households are filled with“minor dangers” that represent major hazards. Data from the UnitedStates National Vital Statistics System during the period between1992-1999 identified falls as the leading cause of unintentionalinjuries and the leading cause of death resulting in an average ofeighteen thousand unintentional home injury deaths each year. In thegeneral population, statistics show that about 60 percent of fallshappen on same level slips and trips where an individual's foot strikesan object, causing the individual to lose his/her balance and fall dueto an unexpected change in the contact between the individual's foot andthe ground.

In 2000, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and injuries to the hips, legs,and feet were the most common and costly fatal fall injuries, accountingfor approximately 78% of fatalities and approximately 79% of costs. Inthe older population, one-in-three adults age 65 and older fall eachyear. Approximately 20-30% suffer moderate to severe injuries, and arehospitalized five times more often for fall-related injuries than theyare for injuries from other causes. Furthermore, the total direct costof all fall injuries for people 65 and older exceeded $19 billion in2000. These costs are projected to reach $54.9 billion by 2020 (adjustedto 2007 dollars). The costs of Unintentional Home Injuries far outstripboth vehicle and workplace losses. In 2008 the average cost in wage andproductivity losses in the United States was $63,500 for a disablinginjury, $1.3 million for every death, and a staggering $3.3 million tothe nation's economy for each injury case. Confirming this trend, a July2008 American Geriatric Society report stated falls are “a leading causeof serious injury and death among elderly people in the United States,and most of those falls occur in the home.” For our aging population,the most dangerous part of the house is the floor in living rooms,bedrooms, and hallways; stairways being the second most dangerous,followed by bathroom and kitchens. Many sources point to the lack ofnightlights in familiar living spaces as a major problem.

Electricity is also a major cause in tens of thousands of injuries anddeaths each year. The two most common causes of injury and death relatedto electricity are electrocutions and electrical fires. Citingstatistics from the National Fire Protection Association, Michael G.Clendenin the executive director for the Electrical Safety FoundationInternational says each year the U.S. averages 111,400 home fires causedby faulty electrical distribution systems, electrical appliances, orheating and air conditioning systems. These fires account forapproximately 860 deaths, 3,785 injuries, and $1.3 billion in propertydamage.

Although serious electric shock injuries among children may be rare,ensuring a safe environment for children in the places where they spendthe majority of their time, i.e. at home and school/daycare, is acritical issue for every family. Safety tips to protect children fromelectrical hazards include plugging unused electrical outlets withsafety caps and removing small appliances. Some small appliances such asa standard nightlight are necessary for safety and cannot be removed.However, nightlights often times attract the attention of youngchildren.

In addition to safety, consumer convenience is also an importantconsideration when developing new products. A product that is safe butcumbersome to use or install will likely be found unpopular withconsumers.

Furthermore, it may be advisable for developers of electrical productsto monitor and ensure compliance with California's rigorous buildingcodes (as they relate to energy saving devices) when designing newproducts.

Thus, what is needed is an improved receptacle/switch cover thatprovides the safety of an integrated light that is also easy to installfor the do-it-yourself consumer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective exploded view of a first embodiment of acover member configured as a receptacle cover, an electrical receptacleand a receptacle box.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective exploded view of the receptacle cover, theelectrical receptacle and the receptacle box of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the receptacle cover joined to theelectrical receptacle of FIG. 1 but detached from the receptacle box.

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the receptacle cover joined to theelectrical receptacle of FIG. 1 but detached from the receptacle box.

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the receptacle cover, theelectrical receptacle and the receptacle box of FIG. 1 coupled.

FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of the receptacle cover, theelectrical receptacle and the receptacle box of FIG. 1 coupled.

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of a covermember configured as a switch cover, a switch receptacle and areceptacle box.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a cover memberconfigured as a receptacle cover with two lights.

FIG. 9 is an elevation view of the cover member of FIG. 8 .

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the cover member of FIG. 8 .

FIG. 11 is a front elevation view of the cover member of FIG. 8 settingforth exemplary dimensions.

FIG. 12 is a right side elevation view of the cover member of FIG. 8setting forth exemplary dimensions for the cover member.

FIG. 13 is a left side elevation view of the cover member of FIG. 8setting forth exemplary dimensions for the cover member.

FIG. 14 is an exploded view of another embodiment of a cover memberconfigured as a switch cover, a switch receptacle and a receptacle box.

FIG. 15 is an exploded side elevation view of the switch cover, theswitch receptacle and the receptacle box of FIG. 14 .

FIG. 16A is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the covermember configured as an “under-plate” positioned between the electricalreceptacle and the wallplate.

FIG. 16B is a front isometric view of the cover member of FIG. 16A.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of another embodiment of the cover memberconfigured with plug receiver outlets.

FIG. 18A is a front isometric view of another embodiment of the covermember configured with connector outlets.

FIG. 18B is an exploded view of the cover of FIG. 18A, the electricalreceptacle and the receptacle box.

FIG. 19 is a front isometric view of another embodiment of the covermember configured with a safety cover.

FIG. 20A is an exploded view of a removable power clip module and afirst receptacle cover configured to join to the removable power clipmodule, along with an electrical receptacle and a receptacle box.

FIG. 20B is an exploded view of a removable power clip module and asecond receptacle cover configured to join to the removable power clipmodule, along with an electrical receptacle and a receptacle box.

FIG. 20C is an exploded view of a removable power clip module and athird receptacle cover configured to join to the removable power clipmodule, along with an electrical receptacle and a receptacle box.

FIG. 21 is another exploded view of the cover member and removable powerclip module of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 22 is a rear exploded view of the cover member and removable powerclip module of FIG. 20A.

FIG. 23 is another exploded view of the cover member of FIG. 20B.

FIG. 24 is a rear perspective view of alternative examples fortransferring power to the cover.

FIG. 25 is an exemplary voltage reduction circuit and conversion thatmay be incorporated with the cover or the power clip module.

FIG. 26 is an exemplary voltage reduction and conversion circuit thatmay be incorporated with the cover or the power clip module.

FIG. 27 is an exemplary voltage reduction and conversion circuit thatmay be incorporated with the cover or the power clip module

FIG. 28 is an exemplary light source circuit that may be incorporatedwith the cover or the power clip module to provide a light during a lossin power.

FIG. 29 is an exemplary backup power circuit that may be incorporatedwith the over or the power clip module to recharge a battery.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure addresses the foregoing problems by providing animproved receptacle/switch cover that includes an integrated lightsource, thereby reducing the potential of accidents and increasingsafety in a home or commercial setting. Consider for a moment thatcommercial vessels and buildings such as ships, aircraft, and industrialfacilities are all designed and built with emergency lighting systems,while residential homes are not despite countless unintended homeinjuries that occur every year. While existing home nightlightappliances are widely available and inexpensive, they are also cosmeticeyesores and unreliable given the likelihood they will break, burn out,not operate when power fails, and readily attract the attention ofvulnerable toddlers and young children.

The receptacle/switch cover in accordance with the present disclosureaddresses negative aspects of existing nightlight appliances with asimple “plug-and-play” installation that easily and quickly replacesexisting receptacle or switch cover faceplates with a flush-mounteddevice that may be securely attached to an existing electricalreceptacle or light switch. The receptacle/switch cover representsadvances in electricity distribution and transmission geared towardsreducing power from existing electric receptacles and switches in orderto power the integrated light source (and potentially other low-powerdevices), while also enabling the convenient and safe transmission ofpower to a myriad of other electrical devices and appliances through theexisting electric receptacle. In one exemplary embodiment, thereceptacle/switch cover includes a light source comprising lightemitting diodes (“LEDs”), voltage reducing integrated circuitry, andpower transmission tabs all mounted on/within or integrated into thecover faceplate providing a safe, compact, and securely attachedeasy-to-install device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Overview

The present disclosure is directed to an electrical device that receivesand/or converts the electrical output of consistent or variable domesticreceptacles and/or switches that are hardwired to the main power of abuilding. In one example, a cover or plate may be configured to beoperably connected to a power receptacle, such as an outlet or switch.In some implementations, the cover may be connected to a standardelectrical socket and may provide a conversion between AC power to DCpower. The cover or plate may further include transmission tabs or othertransmission members that transfer or conduct electricity from a powersource (e.g., AC electrical power source) to an element, circuit orother electrical devices.

In some instances the cover may include an integrated light inelectrical communication with the transmission tab. The integrated lightmay eliminate the need for using a standard nightlight, which may createa safer environment for children. Additionally, the integrated lightfeature may eliminate or reduce a concern about children tampering withremovable nightlights. This is because the cover may be securelyconnected to the outlet receptacle by the same means as do traditionalor conventional covers do and may be difficult for a child to remove.Moreover, with an additional safety cover for covering a screw of thecover member, this may make it even less likely for this to occur.

In other examples, the cover may include additional ports or receiversfor a plug or connector. The cover may include additional plug receiversor outlets, universal serial bus (USB) cable receivers, or otherelectronic cables or connectors that may require a power source.

Detailed Description

FIGS. 1 and 2 are exploded perspective views of one exemplary embodimentof a receptacle cover 100 in accordance with the present disclosure thatis attachable to a standard electric receptacle 102. Particularly, FIG.1 is front perspective view while FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view.

As may be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the electricreceptacles are devices for removably connecting electrically operateddevices to the power supply. The exemplary receptacle 102 illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2 includes first female connector 104A and a second femaleconnector 104B or sockets electrically coupled to a “hot” or “AC in”line 106A, 106B and a “neutral” or “AC out” line 108A, 108B. The hotlines 106A, 106B are connected to a power source such as a transformerconnected to a power grid, a generator, or the like. Additionally, thevoltage for the hot lines 106A, 106B may be varied depending on thecountry, power source, or application.

The female connectors 104A, 104B may also be connected to a ground line.For example, although not shown, the bottom “U-shaped” portion of thefemale connectors 104A, 104B is attachable to the ground line. The pairof hot lines 106A, 106B is coupled to the electric receptacle 102 with acorresponding pair of electrically conductive receptacle fasteners 110.Similarly, the pair of neutral lines 108A, 108B is coupled to theelectric receptacle 102 with a corresponding pair of electricallyconductive receptacle fasteners 110.

The female connectors 104A, 104B have slots 112 or apertures whichprovide a connection point or outlet for providing access to the powersource. A plug, cable, or other device including electrical contacts maybe inserted into the slots 112 in order to be provided power from thepower source. Specifically, upon connection to the hot and neutral lines106A, 106B, 108A, 108B, the female connectors 104A, 104B deliver currentto the plug, prongs, or other electrical contact for the plug or cable(not shown) which is inserted therein. In some examples, the femaleconnectors 104A, 104B are configured to receive a male electricalconnector including contact prongs for mechanical and electricalconnection to the slots 112 or holes in the corresponding femaleconnector 104A, 104B. It should be noted that in some examples, thefemale connectors 104A, 104B of the cover 100 may be replaced by maleconnectors.

The electric receptacle 102 includes first and second mounting flanges114A, 114B for mounting the electric receptacle 102 to a receptacle box116. Particularly, the mounting flanges 114A, 114B may each include areceptacle mounting aperture 118 that aligns with a correspondingmounting aperture 120 in the receptacle box. As will be appreciated bythose skilled in the art, the electric receptacle 102 may be mounted tothe receptacle box 116 by threading a mounting fastener 121 (e.g.,screw, bolt, nail) through each of the receptacle mounting apertures 118and into the corresponding aperture 120 in the receptacle box 120.

It should be understood that the particular configuration of theelectric receptacle 102 and receptacle box 116 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2is presented merely for purposes of example and not limitation. Forexample, the receptacle box 116 includes a cutout along a right side inorder to show the power lines and connections, but in many applications,the receptacle box 116 may not include a side cutout. Thus, the cover100 may be adapted for use with electric receptacles that conform to thestandards of any country (such as standards for voltage, frequency, andslot/pin configuration).

In some examples, the electric receptacle 102 may be a GFI (ground faultinterrupter) receptacle. In this case, the tabs 126, 128 may beconfigured with a design, position and length that accommodates theGFI/GFCI receptacle body and the common/neutral line and hot/positiveline contact points. For example, because GFI/GFCI receptacles have anelongated square body, the outside dimensions of the cover member may bea relatively larger to accommodate the circuitry.

The cover member circuitry may be operable when the GFI/GFCI receptaclehas tripped, for example, as long as the tabs contact the maincommon/neutral and hot/positive contact points/leads. In cases where thecircuit(s) at the main breaker panel have tripped, the cover membercircuitry may be rendered inoperable, e.g., due to the downstream/inlinecircuitry being rendered inoperable (just as it is designed to do).Moreover the cover member circuitry may be configured as low voltagecircuitry.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the receptacle cover 100 may include agenerally flat faceplate 122 having first and second openings 124A, 124Bthat are sized and dimensioned for providing access to the first andsecond female connectors 104A, 104B of the electric receptacle 102. Theparticular shape of the openings 124A, 124B in FIGS. 1 and 2 ispresented merely for purposes of example. Thus, in alternativeembodiments the openings 124A, 124B may be rectangular, circular, or thelike without departing from the intended scope of the presentdisclosure. Additionally, depending on the electrical receptacle 102,the cover 100 may only include a single opening rather than twoopenings, e.g., if the electrical receptacle 102 includes only a singlefemale connector. As will be illustrated in further detail below, thereceptacle cover 100 may be coupled to the electric receptacle 102 bythreading a fastener through an aperture in the faceplate 122 and into acorresponding aperture in the electric receptacle 102. However, thecover 100 may be operably connected to the electrical receptacle 102 inmany other manners, e.g., multiple fasteners, hook and loop, adhesive,and so on.

The receptacle cover 100 includes a transmission tab or a plurality ofpower transmission tabs 126, 128 extending from a rear surface 130 ofthe cover 100. As most clearly illustrated in FIG. 2 , the receptaclecover 100 includes a first power transmission tab 126 that is structuredfor connection to one of the electrically conductive receptaclefasteners 110 coupled to a hot line 106A, 106B and a second powertransmission tab 128 that is structured for connection to one of theelectrically conductive receptacle fasteners 110 coupled to a neutralline 108A, 108B. The power transmission tabs 126, 128 may be designed inany suitable manner that provides a point of contact between thereceptacle cover 100 and the electrically conductive receptaclefasteners 110.

In some embodiments, the power transmission tabs 126, 128 may extendoutwardly away and at a right angle from the back of the rear surface130 of the cover 100. The power transmission tabs 126, 128 may have anelongated shape, e.g., an elongated rectangular shape, with one or morereinforcement ribs such as reinforcement rib 126A illustrated in FIG. 2. While the power transmission tabs 126, 128 are illustrated as having arectangular profile, the power transmission tabs 126, 128 may have asquare profile, a tapering profile, a triangular profile, and so on. Thepower transmission tabs 126, 128 may include one or more conductivesurface structures facing the conductive surface of the electricreceptacle 102 to which the transmission tabs 126, 128 are to contactwhen joined to the electric receptacle 102. For example, thetransmission tab 28 in FIG. 2 illustrates a rectangular shapedconductive protrusion extending around the periphery of the inner sideof the elongated rectangular transmission tab 128, which may facilitateelectrical contact with the first neutral line 108A or its correspondingelectrically conductive receptacle fastener 110, described below. Inaddition, the power transmission tabs 126, 128 may include otherconductive surface structures, such as one or more protrusions, hooks,teeth, and the like for facilitating electrical contact with the firsthot line 106A, and the first neutral line 108A or their correspondingelectrically conductive receptacle fasteners 110.

In one embodiment, the power transmission tabs 126, 128 are manufacturedfrom a suitable conductive material, such as steel or brass, and may beplated with zinc, tin, nickel, or the like. As will be appreciated bythose skilled in the art, any suitable material that allows for thetransmission of current from the power source to the receptacle cover100 may be used without departing from the intended scope of the presentdisclosure. The entire tab 126, 128 may be formed of an electricallyconductive material. Alternatively, the tab 126, 128 may be formed froma non-conductive or insulative material and the electrically conductivematerial provided as an insert that is coupled thereto or embeddedtherein.

In order to accommodate for slight variations in the width of differentelectric receptacles 102 and ensure sufficient contact, the powertransmission tabs 126, 128 may be structured to allow for a limitedamount of outward bending from a normally “biased” position asillustrated in FIG. 2 . Thus, the power transmission tabs 126, 128 maybe substantially rigid but may bend outwardly and then “spring back” totheir normal positions. In these examples, the transmission tabs 126,128 may be resilient and/or semi-flexible to provide the “spring back”reaction once the cover 100 is coupled to the electrical receptacle 102.

The power transmission tabs 126, 128 electrically couple the powersource to the receptacle cover 100. It should be noted that although thetabs 126, 128 provide power to the cover 100, that the faceplate 122 andother outward facing components of the cover 100 may be insulated fromthe tabs 126, 128. This may prevent the tabs 126, 128 from providingelectricity to components that may come into contact with a user orotherwise may cause an unintended shock.

The power from the hot lines 106A, 106B and neutral lines 108A, 108B maybe routed to a voltage reducing circuitry 134 that may be embeddedwithin or coupled to the receptacle cover 100 in any suitable manner.The circuitry 134 may be in communication via a connection wire 133 (orother device) with the transmission tabs 126, 128, the sensor 136, andthe light source 132. In this manner, the circuitry 134 may reduce thevoltage from the transmission tabs 126, 128 but also control, providepower to, and/or facilitate communication between the sensor 136 and thelight source 132.

In addition to reducing the voltage, the circuitry 134 may also beoperable to convert the AC voltage to DC voltage (i.e. provide a DCpower supply). The DC power supply may be used to power various devicesincluding, but not limited to, a light source integrated into thefaceplate 122 of the cover 100, a USB cable connected to an electronicdevice, a sensor, an air freshener device, and so on.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the cover 100 may alsoinclude a light source 132. The light source 132 may be in communicationwith the circuitry 134 and/or the transmission tabs 126, 128. The lightsource 132 may also be operably connected to the faceplate 122 such thatat least a portion of light emitted from the light source 132 may bevisible when the cover 100 is operably connected to the electricreceptacle 102. In one example, the cover 100 may include a light sourceaperture or slot to expose at least a portion of the light source 132.Furthermore, in other examples, the light source 132 may be configuredto be exposed around the sides of the faceplate 122, such that the cover100 may be backlit.

The light source 132 may be substantially any type of light source;however, in some examples, a light emitting diode (LED) light source maybe preferable due to its long life and low power consumption. If thelight source 132 is a LED, the voltage reducing circuitry 134 may onlyneed to convert and reduce the voltage to about 3-12 volts DC. The lightsource 132 may be other types of LEDs, such as a LED power chip, LEDrevolution light sheets, LED panel, or LEDS embedded in or betweenanother panel.

Additionally, the light source 132 may be substantially any shape orsize. In some examples, the light source 132 may be a “light bar” or“light diffuser” (e.g., one or more LED lights may be positioned behinda transparent barrier). The light source 132 is shown in FIGS. 1 and 2as a light diffuser or light bar, but merely for purposes of example andnot limitation. In other examples, the faceplate 122 may be formedsubstantially (or completely) of the light source 132. For example, thefaceplate 122 may be formed of a self-illuminating plastic material, aplastic material that illuminates upon application of a voltage, a LEDplastic sheet, or translucent/electroluminescent material (e.g.,electroluminescent panel), or may be coated with an illuminatingmaterial. Thus, substantially any suitable light source 132configuration may be used, which may include single or multiple bulbs,diodes, or other sources.

In one exemplary embodiment as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 , theelectric receptacle may further include a sensor 136, such as aphotosensor or photodetector in communication with the light source 136.As appreciated by those skilled in the art, photosensors orphotodetectors are electronic components that are operable to detect thepresence of visible light, ultraviolet energy, infrared energy, or thelike. Thus, when the sensor 136 is a photosensor or photodetector, thesensor 136 may function to detect the level of light within a room andautomatically switch the light source 132 on/off accordingly. In thisexample, the light source 132 may be automatically turned on or offdepending on the ambient light within the room. This may allow the lightsource 132 to be activated at night to provide a “night light” or sourceof light in a dark room, and turned off when the room has a light turnedon or during the day.

In other examples, the sensor 136 may be a motion detector, which mayallow the light source 132 to be activated when there is movement nearthe cover 100. This may allow the light source 132 to be turned on if auser is walking near the cover 100, which may provide illumination for apredetermined area near the cover 100.

In some examples, the cover 100 may include an on/off switch that may becoupled to the sensor 136 and/or the light source 132. For example, insome instances, the on/off switch may activate the light source 132 andmay override the sensor 136. Similarly, this may allow the sensor 136 tobe deactivated so that the light source 132 may not be turned on even ifthere is an event which would normally have the sensor 136 trigger thelight source 132 (e.g., motion, decrease in ambient light).

FIGS. 3 and 4 are front and rear perspective views of the exemplaryreceptacle cover 100 in operably coupled or connected to the electricreceptacle 102. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4 , when the cover 100 isoperably connected to the electrical receptacle 102, the first powertransmission tab 126 of the receptacle cover is in electrical contactwith one of the electrically conductive receptacle fasteners 110 coupledto a hot line 106A and the second power transmission tab 128 of thereceptacle cover 100 is in electrical contact with one of theelectrically conductive receptacle fasteners 110 coupled to a neutralline 108A. In this configuration, the receptacle cover receives inputpower from the power source through the power transmission tabs 126,128, thereby providing a source of power for operating the light source132, sensor 136, and/or other devices that operate on low voltage DCpower.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 4 , the cover 100 includes only twotransmission tabs 126, 128 that may be coupled to the first hot line106A, and first neutral line 108A. However, it should be noted that inother examples, the cover 100 may include a second set of tabs that maybe coupled to the second hot line 106B, and second neutral line 108A,respectively. In these examples, the first set of transmission tabs 126,128 may provide power to a first set of one or more devices or elementsand the second set of transmission tabs (not shown) may provide power toa second set of one or more devices or elements different from the firstset. Similarly, the cover 100 may include a set of transmission tabs foreach connector on the electrical receptacle 102, so that if theelectrical receptacle 102 includes multiple outlets there may bemultiple transmission tab sets.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are front and rear perspective views of the electricreceptacle 102 and the receptacle cover 100 coupled to the receptaclebox 116. When the electric receptacle 102 and the cover 100 are operablycoupled to the receptacle box 116, the receptacle box 116 may besubstantially hidden from view. Additionally, only the connectors 104A,104B of the electric receptacle 102 may be viewable through the cover100. This may allow the cover 100 to provide an aesthetically pleasingappearance to the electrical outlet, as the internal components may behidden from view. Additionally, the faceplate 122 of the cover 100 mayalso prevent the internal components from being accessed by people,animals, or the like. This is especially true when the receptacle box116 is installed within a wall or other structure.

Alternative Examples of the Receptacle Cover

Now that one exemplary embodiment of the receptacle cover 100 has beendescribed in detail, several alternative embodiments will beillustrated. Although only a limited number of alternative embodimentswill be illustrated herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in theart that any type of receptacle that provides a source of power mayutilize the power transmission tabs 126, 128 and the integrated lightsource 132 without departing from the intended scope of the presentdisclosure.

In one example, the receptacle cover may be operably connected to aswitch outlet, e.g., a light switch outlet. FIG. 7 is an explodedperspective view of a first alternative cover 200. Particularly, thecover 102 of FIG. 7 may be substantially similar in structure andfunction to the cover 100 of FIGS. 1-6 , but the cover 200 may beoperably connected to a switch receptacle 202 including a switch 204,rather than an electric receptacle cover. Thus, in this example, the twoopenings 124A, 124B for receiving the two connectors 104A, 104B arereplaced with a single switch opening 224. The switch 204 may thenextend through the opening 224 when the cover 200 is operably connectedto the switch receptacle 202. In this manner the switch 204 may beaccessible and movable even when the cover 200 is connected.

In some instances, the hot line 106 and the neutral line 108 aretypically coupled on the same side of a light switch receptacle 202.Therefore, in the cover 200, the power transmission tabs 126, 128 extendfrom a same side of the rear face 230. The power transmission tabs 126,128 may be designated as “upper” and “lower” tabs 126, 128, such thatthe first or higher transmission tab 126 connects to the hot line 106and the second or lower transmission tab 128 connects to the neutralline 108.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the cover 200 may include one moreadditional tabs (not shown) extending from the rear surface 230 of thecover 200. These additional tabs may allow a single cover 200 to be ableto be connected to a electric receptacle and a switch receptacle 202.However, in FIG. 7 , the cover 200 may be connected to the switchreceptacle 202, the additional or “dummy tabs” are not shown.Furthermore, in other embodiments, the additional tabs may not provide aconnection but may be used to balance a “clipping pressure” orconnecting pressure when a user connects the cover 200 to the receptacle202 and help to ensure proper alignment of the cover 202.

In other examples, the cover may include multiple light sources spacedat various locations on the cover. FIG. 8 is a top perspective view ofthe cover 100 of FIG. 1 having an additional light source. FIG. 9 isfront elevation view of the cover 100 of FIG. 8 . FIG. 10 is a rearperspective view of the cover 100 of FIG. 8 . As shown in FIGS. 8-10 ,the cover 100 may include a second light source 142, which may be spacedapart from the first light source 132. In one example, both lightsources 132, 142 may be positioned on a top side of the faceplate 122.However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the lightsource(s) 132, 142 may be placed anywhere on the cover 100.

FIGS. 11-13 set forth exemplary dimensions for the receptacle cover 100.It should be noted that the dimensions as illustrated in FIGS. 11-13 aremerely one example and may be dependent on the shape, size, and/or typeof the electric receptacle 102 and/or receptacle box 116. Therefore, thedimensions illustrated in FIGS. 11-13 are intended to be non-limitingand provide a single example of the cover 100.

Similar to the cover 100 shown in FIGS. 8-10 , the cover 200 for aswitch receptacle 202 may include multiple light sources 232, 242. FIGS.14-15 illustrate the cover 200 of FIG. 7 including a second light source242.

In other examples, the cover may also be used in addition to aconventional receptacle cover or wallplate 252 for an electricreceptacle 102. FIGS. 16A and 16B illustrates a cover member 250 thatmay be connected to the electric receptacle 102 and a wallplate 252. Thewallplate 252 may provide for a covering of the electric receptacle 102,e.g., to hide the mounting flanges 114A, 114B as well as provide anaesthetic appearance. The cover 250 may be positioned between thewallplate 252 and the electric receptacle 102. The cover 250 may includethe power transmission tabs 126, 128, light source 132, and sensor 136,but may be used in addition to the wallplate 252.

The cover 250 may be an “under-plate” and may be positioned between theelectric receptacle 102 and the wallplate 252. As illustrated in FIG.16A, the light sources 132, 134 may be positioned on either side of theconnectors 104A, 104B so as to flank the sides of each exposed connector104A, 104B. However, in other examples the light sources 132, 134 may bepositioned at substantially any location on the cover 250. Furthermore,as shown in FIG. 16A, the cover 250 is configured to be received overthe electric receptacle 102; however, those skilled in the art willappreciate that a similar under-plate style cover may alternatively beused to provide lighting around a standard light switch cover, as wellas other power outlet receptacles.

In some examples, the cover may include a port. FIG. 17 illustrates acover 300 including a port member 303 including three ports 304A, 304B,304C connected thereto. The port member 303 may be in addition to orinstead of the light source(s) 132, 142. The port member 303 or plugadapter may include a single or multiple ports 304A, 304B, 304C toprovide power outlets to additional devices. In one example, the ports304A, 304B, 304C may function similar to a power strip, but may notrequire a connection to the female connector 104A, 104B of the electricreceptacle 102. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, theport member 303 may be formed as a separate component that is operablycoupled to the cover 300, or may alternatively be formed integral withthe cover 300.

Power may be supplied from the hot and neutral power 106, 108 lines viacontact with the power transmission tabs 126, 128. Thus, in thisexample, the cover 300 may transfer a portion of the AC power throughthe power transmission tabs 126, 128 rather than converting all of theAC power to a reduced DC voltage. The ports 304A, 304B, 304C may thenhave AC power provided directly thereto. Stated alternatively, the portmember 303 may receive 110/120 volts AC from the hot and neutral lines106, 108 by way of the power transmission tabs 126, 128. This may allowthe ports 304A, 304B, 304C to provide power to an external device insubstantially the same manner as the female connectors 104A, 104B of theelectric receptacle 102.

In some examples, the ports 304A, 304B, 304C may be configured toprovide power to connectors other than those configured to be receivedwithin the female connectors 104A, 104B of the electric receptacle 102.FIGS. 18A and 18B illustrate the cover member 300 of FIG. 17 includingUSB ports 305A, 305B, 305C. The port member 300 or plug adapter mayprovide low voltage DC power from the integrated voltage reduction andconversion circuitry 134 rather than 110/120 volt AC power from the hotand neutral power lines 106, 108. Thus, in addition or alternatively topowering the light source 132, the power may be used (via a connectionthrough the ports 305A, 305B, 305C) for charging various items ordevices such as cell phones, computers, portable electronic devices,cameras, and the like. Although illustrated with USB configured ports305A, 305B, 305C, the cover 300 and port member 300 may includesubstantially any type of plug/connector. For example, the ports may beconfigured to provide power to radio frequency cables or to radiofrequency devices, such as through radio broadcasting data lines, radiofrequency distribution, security system sensing modules for a radiofrequency device, or a microcamera.

In some examples, the cover member may include a safety cover forcovering a screw that may releasably join the wall plate to the electricreceptacle. FIG. 19 illustrates the cover member 350 including a safetycover 351. The safety cover 351 may be configured as a snap-on cover andmay be joined to the cover member 350 after the cover member 350 hasbeen joined to the electric receptacle 102 via screw 121. The safetycover 351 may limit access to the screw 121, which may prevent smallchildren from accessing the screw 121 and detaching the cover member 350from the electric receptacle 102. This example may be useful in caseswhere the screw 121 is used for grounding the cover member circuitry(e.g., the lower male grounding prong to the female grounding inlet ofthe outlet cover plug adapter).

The foregoing embodiments were described as having the powertransmission tabs and voltage reducing/conversion circuitry coupled toor formed integral with the cover. However, numerous design variationsare possible that may perform in a similar manner. In one exemplaryalternative design, the power transmission tabs and voltagereducing/conversion circuitry may be provided on a separate power clipmodule that may be operably connected to both the electric receptacle orlight switch module and the corresponding cover having the light source.FIGS. 20A-22 below illustrate several exemplary embodiments of thisalternative design.

The various covers 422 in FIGS. 20A-22 may be structured to plug into orother connected to the power clip module 400. The power clip module 400or transmission insert, may include the requisite circuitry 134integrated into its framework for converting the 110/120 volts AC to DCpower. In these embodiments, the power clip module 400 may include thecircuitry 134, power transmission tabs 126, 128 but may be removablefrom a face plate 422. In this manner the power clip module 400 may beinterchanged with different faceplates 422 that may include differentopenings corresponding to alternative electric receptacles 102, switchreceptacles, electronic devices such as lights (e.g., LEDs,electroluminescent panels), sensors, ports, and the like, and mayinclude different colors, textures, or aesthetic deigns.

The power clip module 400 may include a frame 402 configured to besandwiched between the back of the face plate 422 and the electrical orswitch receptacle 102, 202. The frame 402 may define one or moreopenings, for example, to enable one or more of the female connectors104A, 104B or the switch 204 to extend through the openings and throughthe face plate 422. In FIGS. 20A and 20C, the frame opening may bedefined by four internal sidewalls and the sidewalls may be sized andshaped to enable the power clip module 400 to join between face platesand receptacles of various configurations. In some implementations, theframe 402 may be a three-sided frame as illustrated in FIG. 20B. Theframe of FIG. 20B may be considered to have a C-shape, but it may beappreciated that the frame of FIG. 20B may be configure with a U-shape,and upside down U-shape or a backwards C-shape without departing fromthe scope of the invention. Other openings may be defined in the frame402, for example, in order to connect the power clip module 400 to theswitch receptacle 102, 202 and the face plate 422 by one or morefasteners 424 or to enable wires or other components to extend throughthe frame.

The frame of the power clip module 400 may be configured to electricallycouple to electrical devices provided in or on the face plate 422. Insome implementations, all or a portion of the frame 402 facing the backof the face plate 422 may be constructed of conductive material or mayinclude conductive material in areas facing the electrical connectors424, 426 provided on the back of the face plate 422 for powering theelectrical devices. The electrical connectors 424, 426 may be relativelysmall contact points that may for example, be rounded or pointed, andmay be semi-flexible and may join with opposing conductive surfaces onthe clip module 400. In some implementations, the clip module 400 mayinclude the contact points 424, 426 and the face plate 422 may includeopposing conductive surfaces. In another example, the frame 402 may beformed from a non-conductive or insulative material and the electricallyconductive material may be provided as an insert that is coupled theretoor embedded therein.

The transmission tabs 126, 128 for electrically connecting to theelectrical receptacle or switch 102, 202, may extend from the back ofthe frame 402 in a direction outwardly away and at a right angle fromthe back of the rear surface of the power clip module 400. The powertransmission tabs 126, 128 may be in communication with the conductiveportions of the frame and may have an elongated shape, an externalprofile, one or more conductive surface structures, may be formed ofconductive material, and may be resilient or flexible in the same orsimilar manner to the power transmission tabs 126, 128 described abovein connection with FIG. 2 . The circuitry 134 may extend from the frameof the power clip module 400 to enable the power clip module 400 to jointo the electrical receptacle or switch 102, 202 without interferencefrom the circuitry 134. While the circuitry 134 is shown as extendingoutwardly and away from a lower portion of the side of the power clipmodule 400, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the circuitrymay be positioned along the top or bottom of the power clip module 400or may be disposed on the frame 402 (e.g., flexible circuitry may bedisposed on or around the frame 402) or may be integrally formed withthe frame of the power clip module 400 such that the circuitry 134 doesnot interfere with the power clip module 400 joining to the electricalreceptacle or switch 102, 202.

The faceplate 422 may be operably connected to the electric or switchreceptacle 102, 202 by one or more fasteners 424, and the power clipmodule 400 may be sandwiched between the faceplate 422 and the electricor switch receptacle 102, 202. In some examples, the faceplate 422 mayinclude apertures for the sensor 136 and the light sources 132, 142 andthose elements may be included on the power clip module 400. However, inother examples, the faceplate 422 may include the sensor 136, the lightsources 132, 142 and the power clip module 400 may be in communicationwith each element to provide power thereto. In these embodiments, theface plate 422 may electrically connect with the power clip module 400via corresponding electrical contacts, conductive wiring, or the like,which may be formed on the power clip module 400, on the back of theface plate 422 or both.

In the power clip module 400, the circuitry 134 may be configured towrap around a portion of a side of the electric receptacle 102. Similarto the transmission tabs 126, 128 the circuitry 134 may “snap-fit”around the electric receptacle 102. However, the circuitry 134 may beconfigured to be positioned below and insulated from contacting the hotor neutral lines 106, 108 and/or the electrically conductive fasteners110.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, power transmissiontabs are only one exemplary way in which the 110/120 volt AC power maybe transferred from an electric receptacle or light switch module to thecover of the present invention. FIG. 24 illustrates an alternative meansof transferring the AC power from the power clip module 400 to the cover100. Particularly, the hot and neutral power lines 106, 108 may behardwired to the power clip module 400 (or alternatively to the cover100 itself in embodiments that do not utilize the power clip module 400)using electrical leads 406, such as pigtail leads extending from themodule 400. The electrical leads 406 may be fixedly coupled to themodule 400 (or cover 100), or alternatively may be removably coupledthereto using a suitable connection means (such as a plug-styleconnector). In other examples, magnetic contacts may also be used totransfer power between the hot and neutral lines 106, 108 and thetransmission tabs 126, 128.

The circuitry 134 may be configured to accommodate the differentfunctions of the cover 100. For example, the circuitry 134 may beconfigured to have a first power reduction amount when the cover 100 maybe used in a first country and may have a second power reduction amountin embodiments where the cover 100 may be used in a second country.Similarly, depending on the devices (e.g., light sources 132, 142,sensor 136, ports) included with the cover 100, the circuitry 134 may beconfigured to provide an adequate power amount and/or processing.Moreover, the circuitry 134 may also include a battery or alternativepower source, such that the cover 100 may continued to operate if thereis a power loss (e.g., the light source 132 may still be illuminatedwithout power from the hot and neutral lines 106, 108).

In some examples, the circuitry 134 may be a semiconductor active hybridintegrated circuit, or may include electrical components operablyconnected together on a flexible-circuit board, or the like. FIGS. 25-27illustrate an exemplary circuit diagram for when the circuitry isconfigured to provide voltage reduction and conversion functions.However, it should be understood that the following disclosure ispresented merely for purposes of example and not limitation, and anysuitable circuitry that is operable to reduce voltage and/or convert ACto DC power may be used. Similarly, the values listed for the particularcomponents may be varied depending on the different components andelements selected, e.g., a more powerful light source may require adifferent type of circuitry and/or component elements.

As illustrated in FIG. 25 , the exemplary voltage reduction and powerconversion circuitry may be divided into two separate areas or parts andmay include the following components: (4) 1N4007 Diodes (to equal asingle Rectifier); four Resistors 1K, 460K, 100 and a Photo Sensor CDS2.2K Ohms; two Capacitors (334J-250V) and 47 uf 16V; one Zener Diode;two LEDs; one PNP Transistor; and on Micro On/Off Switch.

With reference to FIG. 26 below, the circuitry 134 converts the 110/120volt 60 Hz AC power to DC power using 4 1N4007 diodes creating a bridgerectifier. The circuit filters noise from the AC line with a (334J-250V)capacitor and a (480K-Ohm) resistor. Current in the circuit is limitedwith a (1K-Ohm) resistor to ground/neutral.

The power transmission tab 126 in contact with the hot AC power line isrepresented by the “AC In” block in Part 1, while the power transmissiontab 128 in contact with the neutral AC power line is represented by the“AC Out” block in Part 1.

With reference to FIG. 27 , the (47 uf 16V) capacitor creates a steadyDC voltage as power is transmitted from the bridge. The Zener diodeclamps the voltage to 5 volts when the transistor turns off and currentis forced through the LED load. The Zener diode will operate at about1.7 volts when the LEDs are turned off or in daytime operation/mode.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the circuit includestwo LEDs merely for purposes of example and not limitation. The numberof 100 Ohm resistors is dependent on the number of LEDs and may varywith a change in the number of LEDs and/or elements used as the lightsources 132, 142.

The CDS resistor creates a 2K-Ohm resistive value during daytime modeand slows current to flow through the base of the transistor. Thiscreates a current loop from the collector to emitter which bypasses theLEDs, leaving them off.

In nighttime mode, the CDS Resistor (goes to Infinity and) creates anopen to the base of the transistor. Consequently, this turns off thecurrent flow through the transistor, which turns on current flow throughthe LEDs.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art based upon theforegoing diagrams, the circuit is operable to turn on the LEDs at duskand turn them off at dawn. Thus, the circuit is designed for safety andprovides light to be delivered to the faceplate of the receptacle/switchcover automatically when it is dark (to provide a “nightlight”environment). The on/off switch provides for the manual operation of thelight source when it is desirable to override the automatic operation.

In addition to being used as a “nightlight,” the LED light source mayalso be used as an automatic “emergency light” that turns on when thereis a power failure. Thus, in addition to incorporating circuitry forreducing/converting voltage to power the light source, the presentinvention may further incorporate circuitry that provides for use of thelight source during a loss in main power. One exemplary circuit that maybe used for such a purpose is set forth in FIG. 28 below. However, anysuitable circuit may be used without departing from the intended scopeof the present invention.

It may be desirable to provide a backup source of power for thenightlight in the form of a battery. It may further be desirable toprovide circuitry for automatically recharging the battery to avoidhaving to periodically check battery life and replace the battery. Oneexemplary circuit that may be used for such a purpose is set forth inFIG. 29 . However, any suitable circuit may be used without departingfrom the intended scope of the present invention.

One other possible circuit design not shown, is a low-voltage DCmicro-timing circuit which could be incorporated into the lightingcircuitry that would allow one to set on and off timing points insteadof the use of or combined with sensor 136, e.g., photo/proximitysensors. This may allow a user to set the time of day or night one wouldwant to engage the low-voltage LED lighting to go on or off or off andon as to accommodate varied lifestyles.

Although the present invention has been described with reference topreferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize thatchanges may be made in form and detail without departing from the spiritand scope of the invention.

1. A cover configured to be received around a portion of an electricreceptacle, the cover comprising: a faceplate having a rear surface thatfaces away from a room, and a front surface that faces the room; aplurality of power transmission tabs that extend from the rear surfaceof the faceplate and extend away from the room, a first powertransmission tab of the plurality of power transmission tabs being a hottab that is configured to connect to a power terminal of an electricaldevice connected to a main power line in a receptacle box; powerconversion circuitry that includes a rectifier, the power conversioncircuitry being electrically connected to the first power transmissiontab and rectifies AC power from the first power transmission tab so asto provide DC power; and a proximity sensor configured to receive the DCpower from the power conversion circuitry, and detect a presence of anobject that has near the front surface of the faceplate; and acommunication device, configured to trigger an operation of anotherdevice in response to a detection of the object by the proximity sensor.2. The cover of claim 1 wherein the proximity sensor includes a microcamera.
 3. The cover of claim 2, wherein the communication device isconfigured to communicate digital data.
 4. The cover of claim 2, furthercomprising: a light emitting device that is electrically incommunication with at least one of the proximity sensor and thecommunication device.
 5. The cover of claim 1, wherein the communicationdevice includes one of wired and wireless communication.
 6. The cover ofclaim 5, further comprising a security system component coupled to thefaceplate.
 7. The cover of claim 1, wherein the rectifier is locatedbetween the front surface of the faceplate and an end of the first powertransmission tab.
 8. The cover of claim 1 wherein the power conversioncircuitry is configured to provide different DC output voltage levels.9. The cover of claim 8, wherein wherein the power conversion circuitryis configured to provide one of the different DC output voltages levelsto a connected device based on a power requirement from the connecteddevice.
 10. The cover of claim 9, wherein the power requirement is aload of the connected device.
 11. The cover of claim 1, furthercomprising a volumetric enclosure that extends outwardly toward the roomand having an interior that is sized to house an electrically coupleddevice therein, and an exterior surface sized to accommodate anotherelectrically coupled device thereon.
 12. The cover of claim 1, whereinthe power conversion circuitry continues to provide power under acondition a receptacle is a GFI receptacle that has tripped.
 13. Thecover of claim 1, wherein the faceplate has two openings to accommodatefemale receptacles of the electric receptacle.
 14. The cover of claim 1,wherein the faceplate is configured to accommodate an on/off switch. 15.The cover of claim 14, wherein the on/off switch is a light switch. 16.The cover of claim 1, wherein the power conversion circuitry is voltagereducing circuitry.
 17. The cover of claim 1, further comprising abattery backup.
 18. The cover of claim 1, wherein the another device isa radio frequency device.
 19. The cover of claim 18, wherein the anotherdevice is a radio frequency distribution device.
 20. The cover of claim19, wherein the proximity sensor is a triggers a radio frequencytransmission by the radio frequency distribution device.